What is a common approach to manage the side effects of NSAIDs?

Using NSAIDs, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, can often lead to gastrointestinal side effects, such as irritation or ulcers, particularly with long-term use. One effective strategy to manage these risks is to combine NSAIDs with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). PPIs work by reducing the production of stomach acid, which can help to protect the gastric lining and minimize the potential for NSAID-induced gastric damage.

This approach is particularly beneficial for patients who have a history of gastrointestinal issues or those who are on long-term NSAID therapy, as it significantly lowers the risk of complications such as bleeding or ulcers. By facilitating a safer long-term NSAID regimen, this combination can help maintain pain management while safeguarding gastrointestinal health.

Other options may either not effectively address the side effects of NSAIDs or can lead to undesirable outcomes. For instance, avoiding all anti-inflammatory medications could hinder necessary pain management. Taking NSAIDs on an empty stomach might exacerbate gastrointestinal irritation instead of alleviating it. Increasing dietary fiber intake, while generally beneficial for digestive health, does not specifically mitigate the risks associated with NSAID use.